Barbara Connell Zimmermann

Barbara Connell Zimmermann, 95, who lived most of her life in Kansas City, Missouri, and Mission Hills, Kansas, died Tuesday, August 23, after a long illness.

She was born in Kansas City on May 14, 1927, the daughter of Ruth Elton (Williamson) and the prominent physician Dr. Evan S. Connell. Known as “Bobbie” to family and friends, she grew up attending school at Notre Dame de Sion and Sunset Hill.

Her college years took her Bennington College in Vermont and Kansas University, where she met her husband Matthew H. Zimmermann. They were married one day short of 63 years.

She served as a Gray Lady volunteer at St. Luke’s Hospital, was a scout leader and enjoyed playing tennis and bridge for years at Mission Hills Country Club.

Barbara passed away at Neuvant House in Lawrence, Kansas. Private funeral and graveside services will be held for the family.

She is preceded in death by her husband, her parents and her brother, author Evan S. Connell. Survivors include her children, Donna (Michael) Waller, Janet Zimmermann, Matthew (Cate) Zimmermann, six grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren.